HOME ABOUT BAND BAND PRINCIPLES BEGINNER BAND CONCERT BAND SYMPHONIC BAND FIFTH GRADE PAGE RESOURCES THE PRACTICE PAGE THE DIRECTORS BAND PICTURES PET PAGEHome.htmlAbout_the_Band.htmlBand_Principles.htmlBeginner_Band.htmlConcert_Band.htmlSymphonic_Band.htmlFifth_Grade_Page.htmlResources.htmlThe_Practice_Page.htmlThe_Directors.htmlBand_Pics/Band_Pics.htmlPet_Page.htmlshapeimage_1_link_0shapeimage_1_link_1shapeimage_1_link_2shapeimage_1_link_3shapeimage_1_link_4shapeimage_1_link_5shapeimage_1_link_6shapeimage_1_link_7shapeimage_1_link_8shapeimage_1_link_9shapeimage_1_link_10shapeimage_1_link_11
 
 
What is the Downing Band all about? While we do pride ourselves in our musical talents, this is not the primary focus of the band program at Downing. We strive to help students become: Better people Better students Excellent All-Around Musicians Life-long lovers of music To help in that task, the band embraces and tries to carry out several key values. These are called the Downing Band Principles. Click below to see what the core values of the Downing Band are: Downing Band Principles Does it cost a lot to be in band? NOT REALLY. There are low-cost options for obtaining an instrument either from local music stores or from LISD (certain conditions apply). Do NOT let financial concerns keep your child from joining -- We can ALWAYS find a solution! Is prior band or other musical experience required? NO. While a background in piano or similar instrument can be helpful to a student's understanding of musical concepts, it is NOT necessary to have prior knowledge or training. Most students in the Downing Band had no music training outside regular 5th grade music classes prior to coming to school here. Does band take a lot of time? During the first year, daily practice is necessary to learn a musical vocabulary and develop the proper muscles to correctly play your instrument. You are welcome to do extra practice will receive extra credit for your effort. Almost all of the instruction during the first year takes place during class. There are only a few rehearsals outside the school day, as well as a couple of concerts. Will it be hard to keep up with school work and be in band? While middle school will be an adjustment for all students, band is a subject helps students deal with the transition from day one. It provides a core group of friends right from the start. Additionally, research shows that students enrolled in public school band programs: - average nearly 90 points higher on their SAT scores - are more likely to attend college and receive their undergraduate degrees (96% do), and - are more likely to receive music scholarships for college than any other program on campus Is your question not up here? Feel free to contact Mr. SmithBand_Principles.htmlmailto:smithsj@lisd.net?subject=5th%20Grade%20Web%20Questionshapeimage_3_link_0shapeimage_3_link_1